Britain, Indonesia target terrorism, misconceptions

Britain is moving to normalise defence ties with Indonesia and launching an initiative to combat Islamic extremism during his 24-hour visit to the sprawling archipelago of 220 million people, 85 per cent of them Muslims.

8220;We want in defence terms now to treat Indonesia as it should be, as our friend and our ally,8221; Blair said, 8220;and in

respect of counter-terrorism8230;we are going to work closely together.8221;

British officials said this step would allow moves such as joint exercises or exchanging military observers but would not immediately lead to arms deals. Defence relations have been at a lower level until now because of Indonesia8217;s authoritarian past.

Blair8217;s visit seals an improvement in relations between the two countries, both of which have been targets of Islamic militant bombings, and marks British recognition of Indonesia8217;s shift to democracy.

8220;Indonesia has a crucial part in trying to ensure that there is greater understanding between people of different faiths and that within that greater understanding we8217;ve got a chance of resolving the conflicts that there are in the world,8221; said Blair.

In a joint statement, the leaders announced the establishment of a regular forum 8220;to promote strategic dialogue on bilateral, multilateral and global issues8221;, and agreement on a memorandum of understanding 8220;on police cooperation as a sign of their commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms8221;. Yudhoyono said of the meeting with Islamic leaders: 8220;They are all moderate but critical.8221;

Most Indonesian Muslims avoid extremism in their religious views, but oppose US and British policy in Iraq. Many also believe the West is too liberal on social issues.

Blair8217;s visit was the last leg of a week-long tour that has also taken him to Australia and New Zealand. 8212; Adrian Croft 038; Jerry Norton